How do scent glands help mammals mark territory and communicate?

Chemical communication is common in mammals because odors can remain long after the animal has moved on. Scent glands may be located on the face, feet, tail, or near the anus, depending on the species. By rubbing against objects or leaving secretions in specific places, animals can mark territory or signal readiness to mate. Others can read these cues using a strong sense of smell or a specialized vomeronasal system. This form of communication is widespread and can be more reliable than sound in dense habitats.